After tooth loss, dental implants provide a permanent solution, restoring your smile and the functions of your mouth. Titanium rods are surgically placed into your jawbone and become an anchor for one or more false teeth. These rods fuse with the bone and act much like a natural tooth root, even going so far as to halt bone loss. In most cases, implants are successful, and provide a strong base for false teeth. However, there are some instances where the implants can be rejected.
What Causes Implant Rejection?
There are several issues that could cause implant rejection. One major cause of rejection is smoking during healing. Implants could fail as the result of an infection, known as peri-implantitis. An implant could have pierced through the sinus cavity. You may not have sufficient bone density. You could have an allergic reaction to trace levels of nickel found in the titanium rods. Or, if you suffer from bruxism, the likelihood of failure is higher. There are several signs to be on the lookout for.
Inflammation
Some swelling following implant surgery is normal. However, the swelling should subside over time. If it does not, or it gets worse and is accompanied by pain (which is also normal following surgery, but should subside over time), this is often a sign of peri-implantitis.
Sinus Problems
The sinus cavities are located above the top set of teeth. If there is not sufficient space between the jaw and the cavity, the implant can pierce through the cavity. Not only can this cause sinus infections, it can also lead to implant rejection.
Loose Crowns
Implants are placed to fuse with the jawbone and provide a strong support for the crown. If a crown is loose and can be easily wiggled around, that is a sign that time implant is not secure within the jawbone. This means that you may still experience bone loss, and the implant may fail completely.
Taking proper care of your implants during the healing process and beyond can help to minimize the risk of rejection. However, if you do experience signs of rejection, it is important to contact our office right away.
